Algorithms out of 2012 Kentucky Derby! The injury that forced Holy Bull Stakes winner Algorithms to be scratched from Sunday’s Fountain of Youth Stakes at Gulfstream Park will also keep him out of the 2012 Kentucky Derby, Preakness and Belmont. Trainer Todd Pletcher and owner Jack Wolf said Tuesday that x-rays confirmed that there is a fractured splint in his right front leg that will have to be surgically removed.

Algorithms was the morning-line favorite for the Fountain of Youth Stakes last weekend at Gulfstream Park. He was scratched before the race with what was thought to be a popped splint injury to his right front leg.

Algorithms will ship to Ocala, Florida today where Dr. John Madison of Ocala Equine Hospital will perform the operation.

“We are hoping that he only requires a minimal amount of time off, but he is definitely not going to make the Triple Crown,” said Pletcher.

“It is very disappointing that he will have to miss the spring classics,” said Wolf, of Starlight Racing. “But we look forward to having him back in late summer or early fall. This really is the best long term option for Algorithms.”

Undefeated in three lifetime starts including his five-length win in the Holy Bull Stakes at Gulfstream Park, Algorithms was considered one of the top 2012 Triple Crown prospects. In the winners circle after the Holy Bull Stakes, Algorithms owners Starlight Partners thanked Kentucky Derby Tours alumni, Pat Klussman of Oakbrook Farm for breeding this horse. Pat and her late husband, Bill Klussman joined our Kentucky Derby Tours for many years. Not a stranger to having bred a Kentucky Derby starter, Pat Klussman and Oakbrook Farm also bred Keyed Entry who set the pace when he ran in the 2006 Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs which was won by Barbaro.

We are sorry that we will not be seeing Algorithms as one of the Kentucky Derby horses on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs. The 2012 Kentucky Derby might miss having Algorithms in it. We wish Algorithms a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing him race in the Fall. Get well soon!